Tampa Heights residents will finally get a chance to view the newly completed Water Works Park when it opens on Aug. 12, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn announced Thursday.

Officials will hold a formal ribbon-cutting, and the celebration continues on Sat., Aug. 16, starting at 5 p.m. with food trucks and children's activities, and a fireworks show beginning at 9 p.m.

“This park is transformative for historic Tampa Heights and our urban core but also for our entire city. It's another point of connection with the Hillsborough River, and will be a space for entertainment and activity,” Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn said. “Everyone should come out to see, experience, and enjoy the park, the historic Tampa Heights neighborhood, and soon, a waterfront restaurant.”

The Tampa Riverwalk has been extended to run throughout the park, at 1710 N. Highland Ave., along the Hillsborough River. A kayak launch, eight boat slips and a water taxi stop also will be installed once the permits are approved.

In addition, the Ulele restaurant — owned by Richard Gonzmart and the Columbia Restaurant Group — will open later in August. The restaurant, which includes a 225-seat restaurant, a beer garden, a microbrewery and an outdoor patio, has been in development for more than two years.